Press Operator

Overview

Consider joining the Pennex family as a Press Operator in our Leetonia, OH location. This position is responsible for setting the billet length, controlling furnace temperature, and managing press speed for optimum production and quality. The Press Operator watches metal for quality issues such as pick‑up, tear‑out, and die lines, makes appropriate adjustments to correct the problems, and reports issues to supervisors and management to improve productivity and quality. The Press Operator regularly checks all equipment and immediately reports any problems.

Shift Availability

• Monday through Thursday: 8 pm to 6 am
• 6 am to 6 pm (this shift alternates between a 3‑day week and a 4‑day week and includes every other weekend)

Responsibilities

• Set billet length, billet temperature, ram speed, quench system set‑up, and other press set points for optimum production and quality per recipe.
• Watch metal for quality problems such as pick‑up, tear‑out, and die lines; make appropriate changes to the process set‑up to correct and eliminate defects.
• Utilize calipers, micrometers, squares, and gages to inspect parts per customer requirements, work instructions, and Aluminum Association Standards.
• Assist with set‑ups, tear‑downs, and changeovers of tooling. Check die tooling to ensure proper set‑up before starting the next order.
• Report on die performance after an order is complete to the Die Shop for proper repair or polishing; document any issues per Work Instructions.
• Adjust billet length to optimize yield, productivity, end scrap, and desired run‑out length.
• Regularly check all equipment and report any possible problems to the Supervisor and Maintenance Technicians.
• Ensure proper lock‑out / tag‑out procedures are followed before turning the press over to maintenance or performing repairs yourself.
• Fill out any necessary paperwork during the shift.
• Maintain a neat and orderly work area and assist with general housekeeping of the Press Department.
• Follow company rules and regulations regarding work and safety practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One or more years of experience and/or training as a press operator; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

• Previous hydraulic press operation or minimum of metal machining experience preferred.

Other Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to perform arithmetic operations with two‑digit numbers and with tens and hundreds in U.S. units of weight, volume, and distance.
• Ability to apply understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions.
• Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Ability to operate a motor and function independently or as part of a team.
• Possess good verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to pass pre‑employment physical and drug screen.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States; visa sponsorships are not available.
• Must have regular attendance.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) with matching contribution.
• Generous allotment of paid vacation and paid holidays.
• Competitive wages plus performance‑based bonus opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Ample opportunity for career growth and advancement.
• Daily pay available.

Company Overview

Founded nearly half a century ago, Pennex continues to grow as a leading provider of quality aluminum cast products and extrusions. With state‑of‑the‑art technology and facilities across Ohio and Pennsylvania, we cast billet, extrude custom shapes, and fabricate finished components for customers in automotive, transportation, building and construction, electrical, machinery, consumer durables, and distribution sectors.

Our core values—safety, integrity, caring, and growth—embody how we operate. If you have strong problem‑solving, collaboration, and communication skills, Pennex may be the perfect place to grow your career.

Commitment to Inclusion

We welcome people of different backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age or marital status, veteran, or disability status. All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Legal Information

Qualified applicants must be legally authorized for employment in the United States and not require employer‑sponsored work authorization now or in the future.

Confidentiality Agreement Required: Yes

Posted Minimum Pay Rate: USD $20.67/Hr.

Posted Maximum Pay Rate: USD $25.96/Hr.